Ebola Virus

Ebola is a rare but deadly virus that causes fever, body aches, and diarrhea, and sometimes bleeding inside and outside the body.

As the virus spreads through the body, it damages the immunity system of the body and the body organs. Ultimately, it causes levels of blood clotting cells or platelets to drop. This leads to severe, uncontrollable bleeding. The disease was known as Ebola hemorrhagic fever but is now referred to as Ebola Virus. It kills up to 90% of people who are infected.

How does one Get Ebola?

Ebola isn’t as contagious as more common viruses like cold, cough or measles. It spreads to people by contact with the skin or bodily fluids of an infected animal, like a monkey, chimp, or fruit bat. Then it moves from person to person the same way. Those who care for a sick person or bury someone who has died from the disease often get it.

Other ways to get Ebola include touching contaminated needles or surfaces. One can’t get Ebola from air, water or food. A person who has Ebola but has no symptoms can’t spread the disease, either.

What Are the Symptoms of Ebola?

Early on, Ebola can feel like the flu or other illnesses. Symptoms show up 2 to 21 days after infection and usually include:

As the disease gets worse, it causes bleeding inside the body, as well as from the eyes and ears, and nose. Some people will vomit blood, have bloody loose motions and get a skin rash.

How Is Ebola Diagnosed ?

Sometimes it’s hard to tell if a person has Ebola from the symptoms alone. Doctors may test to rule out other diseases like Cholera or Malaria. Tests of blood and tissues also can diagnose Ebola. If one has Ebola, he will be isolated from the public immediately to prevent the spread.

How Is Ebola Treated?

There’s no cure for Ebola, though researchers are working on it. Treatment includes an experimental serum that destroys infected cells. Doctors manage the symptoms of Ebola with Fluids, Oxygen, Blood transfusions, Treatment for other infections